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What Does a BCBA Do Day to Day?
November 21, 2025
A Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) is a professional who uses evidence-based techniques to help individuals with autism and other developmental disorders improve their behavior.
If you're curious about what a BCBA actually does on a day-to-day basis, you're in the right place.
A BCBA’s Daily Tasks: What You Can Expect
A BCBA’s day revolves around creating and implementing behavior interventions that enhance the lives of their clients. Here’s a look at what a typical day might include:
- Conduct Behavior Assessments: One of the first tasks of a BCBA is to conduct a functional behavior assessment (FBA). This involves observing clients to identify specific behavior patterns, triggers, and reinforcers. BCBAs use this data to understand the root causes of problem behaviors and create effective treatment plans.
- Create Personalized Treatment Plans: Based on the results of the behavior assessments, BCBAs develop individualized behavior intervention plans (BIPs). These plans are grounded in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) principles and are designed to reduce negative behaviors while reinforcing positive ones.
- Implement ABA Therapy Sessions: BCBAs work directly with clients to carry out their treatment plans. This involves teaching new skills, modifying behaviors, and using ABA techniques to encourage desirable behaviors. These sessions take place in a variety of settings, including homes, schools, and clinics.
- Train Parents and Caregivers: BCBAs play an important role in training parents, caregivers, and teachers to implement the behavior plans consistently. By ensuring that everyone involved in the client’s life is on the same page, BCBAs help achieve better and faster results.
- Monitor Progress and Adjust Treatment: Monitoring progress is essential for a BCBA. They collect data to track the effectiveness of the treatment and make necessary adjustments to the behavior plan. Regular progress reviews help ensure the therapy is working and that goals are being met.
How BCBAs Make a Difference
BCBAs are dedicated to helping their clients develop essential skills, improve behavior, and achieve greater independence.
Through targeted interventions, personalized treatment plans, and consistent monitoring, BCBAs create lasting change. Whether it’s helping children with autism thrive in school or providing in-home therapy for a family, BCBAs make a real difference.
If you’re looking for ABA therapy services, Divine Steps Therapy offers in-home ABA therapy and school-based ABA therapy for children and adults with autism.
Learn more about our services in Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina. Reach out today to see how we can support your journey!
FAQs
What qualifications do BCBAs need?
BCBAs need to have a master’s degree in behavior analysis or a related field, along with supervised experience. After completing their education and experience, they must pass a certification exam to become board-certified.
Can a BCBA work with children?
Absolutely! BCBAs often specialize in working with children, particularly those with autism, to improve social skills, communication, and daily living skills.
How long does it take for ABA therapy to work?
The length of time for ABA therapy to show results depends on the individual. Some clients may see improvements quickly, while others may require more time. Consistency, regular assessments, and adjustments help ensure success.
Sources:
- https://www.bacb.com/bcba/
- https://drexel.edu/soe/resources/career-path/how-to-behavior-analyst/
- https://www.thechicagoschool.edu/insight/career-development/bcba-guide-bcba-certification-exam/
- https://www.psychology.org/resources/bcba-meaning-career-overview/
- https://www.umassglobal.edu/blog-news/what-does-a-behavior-analyst-do
- https://bouve.northeastern.edu/news/board-certified-behavior-analyst-definition-and-responsibilities/
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